CPU Comparison
Core i7-9850H vs Intel Core i9-9980HK
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-9850H is a premium mobile processor launched in April 2019 for high-end gaming laptops and mobile workstations. Based on the Coffee Lake-HR architecture, this 14nm chip features 6 cores and 12 threads, delivering robust multi-threaded performance. Operating at a base clock of 2.6 GHz and boosting up to 4.6 GHz, it offers slightly higher single-core turbo frequencies compared to the popular i7-9750H. With a 45W TDP, it is designed for performance-oriented chassis with substantial cooling solutions. The processor includes 12MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR4-2666 memory. It features Intel UHD Graphics 630, providing basic display capabilities and Quick Sync media acceleration when the discrete GPU is idle. Often found in top-tier mobile workstations and premium gaming laptops, the i7-9850H strikes a balance between high frequency and multi-core capability, making it suitable for demanding professional applications like CAD, 3D rendering, and software compilation on the go.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong multi-threaded performance handles creator applications well, though modern alternatives are faster.
Gaming
Competent for gaming at high refresh rates, but newer CPUs offer better performance and efficiency.
Virtualization
8 cores and 16 threads provide ample resources for running multiple virtual machines.
Efficiency
14nm process consumes more power and generates more heat compared to modern 7nm+ mobile processors.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
No data
- No dedicated AI acceleration hardware
- Can handle CPU-based inference for small models
- Far surpassed by modern NPUs and AI-focused processors
Content Creation
No data
Gaming
No data
- High single-core clocks benefit game performance
- Capable of driving high-refresh-rate gaming with a discrete GPU
- Integrated UHD 630 is not suitable for modern gaming
- Outperformed by newer mobile CPUs in efficiency and integrated graphics
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent single and multi-core performance
- High 4.6 GHz turbo boost
- Full 12MB L3 cache
- Supports ECC memory (with compatible chipset)
Cons
- Runs hot in mobile chassis
- Soldered BGA package
- Expensive
- Only supports PCIe 3.0
Pros
- 8 cores and 16 threads for excellent multi-threaded performance
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking enthusiasts
- High 5.0 GHz turbo boost for strong single-core performance
- Good balance of performance and power in the 45W TDP class
- Well-supported by major laptop OEMs in its generation
Cons
- Older 14nm manufacturing process limits efficiency
- Integrated UHD 630 graphics are obsolete for modern gaming
- Discontinued platform with no upgrade path beyond 9th Gen mobile
- High power consumption and heat under load compared to newer chips
- Outperformed by many 7nm+ mobile processors in both performance per watt and integrated graphics
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-9850H
- Intel Core i7-9750HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-9880HRival
High-End Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Xeon E-2276MRival
Mobile Workstation
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-10875HAlt
Next-gen 8-core upgrade.
Intel Core i9-9980HK
- AMD Ryzen 9 4900HSRival
High-End Mobile
- Intel Core i9-10880HKRival
High-End Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-10750HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Efficiency Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 9 7945HXAlt
Far superior multi-threaded performance, efficiency, and modern platform features.
Dramatically better performance in every metric and a modern platform with DDR5 support.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 7840HSAlt
Excellent performance-per-watt with strong integrated Radeon graphics.
- Alt
Leading efficiency and integrated GPU performance for macOS users.
Compare head-to-head A balanced modern mobile CPU with good performance and efficiency, often at a lower cost.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A slightly faster, better-binned version of the 9750H, offering excellent performance for heavy mobile workloads.
Best for: Buying a used premium mobile workstation
Read the full reviewA powerful mobile processor in its time, offering top-tier multi-threaded performance and overclocking headroom, but now outpaced by newer, more efficient chips with better integrated graphics.
Best for: Used high-performance laptop for gaming or content creation on a strict budget
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-9850H or Intel Core i9-9980HK?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-9850H comes out ahead with a score of 8.7/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Core i7-9850H or Intel Core i9-9980HK?
For gaming, the Intel Core i9-9980HK leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Core i7-9850H and Intel Core i9-9980HK.
Do Core i7-9850H and Intel Core i9-9980HK use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-9850H: Intel BGA 1440, Intel Core i9-9980HK: BGA1440), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i9-9980HK has the most cores. Core counts: Core i7-9850H (6 cores), Intel Core i9-9980HK (8 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i9-9980HK posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i9-9980HK (22). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.